Watchlist FAQs

What is a TLD?

TLD stands for Top Level Domain. It's sometimes more simply referred to as the domain's extension. The most famous example is .com. So for example, in google.com the TLD is .com. In google.net the TLD is .net.

What is the lifecycle of a new TLD?

New TLDs will go through a typical lifecycle such as this:

Where will I go for Pre-Registration, Sunrise and other periods before Go Live?

You will be able to purchase domain names directly from Watchlist as registries begin taking orders for each TLD.

What is a TLD Application?

When a company wants to open a new TLD, they must submit a proposal to ICANN for review. The new TLD can be launched once ICANN approves the application.

What is Sunrise?

Sunrise period is the phase of a TLD launch during which only owners of trademarks may register domain names containing their owned marks.

What is Landrush?

Landrush is the phase of a TLD launch during which domain names are available for registration for non-trademark holders that wish to register generic terms like loan or car but cannot participate in the Sunrise period. Landrush comes after Sunrise but before General Availability.

What is General Availability?

General Availability is the phase of a TLD launch when domain names are publicly available for anyone to register as long as registrants adhere to the requirements established by that particular TLD’s registry.

Is there a charge to use the Watchlist?

Watchlist is FREE with no obligation or commitment. You may enter in as many domains to watch as you like. We will inform you as we update the rules for Watchlist.

How will I know what to do next?

We will update Watchlist and email you details as information becomes available for each TLD.

How will the Watchlist help me register my domain(s)?

You will be able to place orders for Sunrise, Landrush and General Availability direct from Watchlist. We’ll send you emails when we begin accepting orders so you don’t miss the chance to get the domains you want.

My Watchlist items are in Awaiting Evaluation status. What does that mean?

Applications for new TLDs in this status have been submitted but have not yet been scheduled for review by ICANN, the organization overseeing the new TLD program. The status will be updated once the evaluation of the TLD application begins.

How much will it cost to register domains in these new TLDs?

The registries have not published their pricing yet and we are only accepting Watchlist submissions, which are free and non-binding.

Do I have to buy all of the domains in my Watchlist?

Your Watchlist is an expression of interest, not a commitment to buy. You may remove items from Watchlist at any time.

When are the TLDs in the Watchlist going live?

Each proposed TLD has is pending approval by ICANN. As applications are approved, each TLD will have its own launch timeline. Watchlist will be updated as those timelines become available.

Will I be able to tell if other people have submitted any of the domains on my Watchlist?

All Watchlist entries are private to the account that submitted them.

Why can’t I add some proposed TLDs to Watchlist?

Watchlist does not accept TLDs that will not be available for public registration. Updates to Watchlist are ongoing as the status of TLDs change.

Who is ICANN?

The non-profit organization that regulates the domain naming system for the Internet. ICANN's mission is to ensure the continued stability and security of the DNS (Domain Name System).